Snow storm kills 8 in Indian state of Himachal Pradesh

NEW DELHI. November 21. KAZINFORM. At least eight people were killed Friday in northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh after being hit by a snow storm, Indian official broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) Saturday reported; Kazinform refers to Xinhua.

    These people fall prey to high-speed winds blowing over the 13,050 feet high Rohtang Pass near Manali, Friday afternoon.

    Quoting the officials, AIR said 67 people have been evacuated by the district administration who were trapped on the pass.

    Early winter snow in the area had closed the pass, a fortnight ago because of heavy snowfall. People stranded on either side of the pass which connects Kullu valley with the landlocked Lahaul valley were attempting to cross over the snow tracks on the pass on foot; Kazinform cites Xinhua. See www.news.xinhuanet.com for full version.